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Chelsea midfielder ‘top of shopping list’ for Serie A giants

Nemanja Matic is reportedly still the top target for Juventus this summer with the Bianconeri planning life without Paul Pogba.

The Serbian international was highly influential in Chelsea’s title-winning campaign two years ago, but as with many of his team-mates, he struggled last year.

According to The Daily Mail, he is still the first choice target for Massimiliano Allegri, with the Bianconeri likely to be looking for a replacement for Pogba in the coming weeks.

As noted by The Mail, the French ace is expected to complete a move to Manchester United this summer, and although Juve are set to sign Gonzalo Higuain from Napoli, they want to add another midfielder to their squad to lessen the blow of losing Pogba.

However, it remains to be seen how successful they are in their pursuit of the former Benfica star, as ultimately he could yet be seen as an important part of Antonio Conte’s plans.

In contrast, given the Italian tactician’s signing of N’Golo Kante earlier this month, it appears as though he has identified the man that he wishes to anchor his midfield and provide defensive coverage, which could spell trouble for Matic.

Further, the fee received for the 27-year-old could in turn allow Conte to continue to strengthen his squad, as he looks to add more quality to the group having only signed Kante and Michy Batshuayi so far this summer.

On the face of it, the move would seem to suit all parties concerned, and ultimately it looks as though Pogba’s move to United will essentially unlock a lot of business around him.

The wait goes on for the French international to secure his return to Old Trafford though, but Matic could very well be plying his trade in Turin next season.